Five Hour Driving Class in New York – DMV Approved & Ready When You Are
Meta Description: Enroll in New York’s certified five hour driving class at Drive Rite Academy. Live Zoom sessions, in-person options, and fast MV-278 certificate delivery for all NYS residents age 16+.
If you're searching for a five hour driving class in New York, you're in the right place. Whether you're a teen ready for your first license or an adult finally getting behind the wheel, the five hour pre-licensing class is your mandatory next step.
At Drive Rite Academy, we make the process simple, fast, and accessible for everyone. Our live Zoom sessions run 7 days a week, taught by certified instructors and open to all New York State residents.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the course—and how you can get certified without leaving your home.
What Is the Five Hour Driving Class?

The five hour driving class—also called the Pre-Licensing Course—is required by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for first-time drivers. It’s a classroom-based training session focused on safety, responsibility, and state traffic laws.
You’ll Learn About:
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Traffic laws and signage in NY
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Defensive driving strategies
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Dangers of distracted and impaired driving
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Accident prevention techniques
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Emergency and hazard responses
When completed, you'll receive the MV-278 certificate, which you need to book your DMV road test.
Who Needs to Take the Class?
This course is mandatory if you:
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Are at least 16 years old
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Have a valid New York learner’s permit
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Have never held a NYS driver’s license
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Live anywhere in New York State and want to take the road test
Teens, adults, and new residents—this is your gateway to becoming a legal, licensed driver in NY.
Take the Class Online with Zoom
Looking for a five hour driving class near you? We’ve made it easier—just take it from your home!
Why Our Zoom Classes Are the #1 Choice:
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Live, certified instructors
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No driving or commuting
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Join from anywhere in NY
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Works on any device
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Certificate delivery options
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Multiple class times daily
Whether you're in Brooklyn or Buffalo, Albany or Astoria—you can join our DMV-approved Zoom session with a click.
Reserve your spot here
Prefer In-Person? We’ve Got You Covered.
We also offer traditional classroom options for students in:
You’ll receive the same great content and support—just face-to-face.
Course Curriculum: What You’ll Learn
Module
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Key Topics
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NYS Traffic Laws
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Speed limits, intersections, signs
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Defensive Driving
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Scanning, spacing, collision prevention
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Impaired Driving
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Alcohol/drug effects, BAC, DWI laws
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Driver Attitude
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Risk behavior, road rage, decision-making
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Emergency Procedures
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Crash response, roadside safety
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You’ll leave prepared—not just to pass your test, but to drive safely for life.
How to Register for the Five Hour Driving Class
Booking is easy and takes just a few minutes:
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Go to our Pre-Licensing Course page
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Choose a Zoom or in-person option
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Pick your class date and time
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Upload your learner’s permit
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Pay securely
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Get a confirmation email with your access details
Need help? Contact us here
How You’ll Get Your MV-278 Certificate
Once you complete the course, you’ll receive your official MV-278 certificate.
Delivery Options:
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Pickup from our Brooklyn office
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Standard Shipping (1–2 weeks, $5 fee)
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Expedited Shipping available for an extra fee
This certificate is valid for 1 year and is required to take your road test.
Next Steps: Practice & Pass
You’ve taken the class—now let’s get you on the road.
Book Driving Lessons
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Learn how to parallel park, merge, and handle real traffic
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DMV-trained instructors
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Packages available for all levels
Book a Road Test + Rent a Car
Take Our Defensive Driving Course
After you're licensed, continue learning:
FAQ – Five Hour Driving Class
Q: Is this class DMV-approved?
Yes! We are an official NYS DMV-certified provider.
Q: Can I take this course if I’m under 18?
Yes. Age 16+ with a valid NY permit is eligible.
Q: Is the certificate delivered same day?
No. You can pick it up or have it mailed. Expedited shipping is available.
Q: Do I need to pass a test?
No. You just need to complete the full 5 hours.
Q: Can I change my class date after registering?
Yes! Contact our team and we’ll reschedule you.
Book Your Five Hour Driving Class Today
Ready to move one step closer to your license?
With Drive Rite Academy, you get:
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Live, engaging instruction
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Zoom or in-person options
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Flexible daily class schedules
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MV-278 certificate delivery
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A full support system from permit to license
Click here to enroll now
Let’s get you road-ready—safely, smartly, and with confidence.